Jobs & Career
Research Assistant/Associate Position at Newcastle University – Apply Now (Fully Funded Role)
Are you passionate about X-ray crystallography, materials science, and molecular structure research? Here is an excellent opportunity to join one of the UK’s top research institutions. Newcastle University is currently inviting applications for a Research Assistant/Associate to support the EPSRC National X-ray Crystallography Service (NCS) within the School of Natural and Environmental Sciences.
This position offers a chance to work alongside world-class scientists, gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge crystallographic technology, and contribute to impactful research that supports scientists across the United Kingdom.
Position Overview
| Role | Salary Range (Pro Rata) |
|---|---|
| Research Assistant | £33,002 – £34,610 per year |
| Research Associate | £35,608 – £39,906 per year |
Contract: Part-time (0.5 FTE)
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom (Remote-friendly aspects)
Closing Date: 17 November 2025
Funding Duration: Until June 2027
Newcastle University offers excellent benefits, including a comprehensive holiday package, pension scheme, and health & wellbeing support programs.
About the Role
The successful applicant will work closely with Prof. Michael Probert to deliver high-quality crystallisation and diffraction services to users of the National Crystallography Service. The work involves:
- High-throughput crystallisation using nanodroplet robotics
- Single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis
- Research under extreme environmental conditions (e.g., ultra-low temperatures, high pressure using Diamond Anvil Cells)
- Use of world-leading instrumentation, including six state-of-the-art diffractometers
- Access to the UK national synchrotron facility: Diamond Light Source
This role is ideal for candidates seeking to advance careers in structural chemistry, physics, and materials science, while gaining exposure to nationally impactful scientific research.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct crystallisation and diffraction experiments using provided protocols.
- Analyse, interpret, and present structural data.
- Collaborate with NCS team members across multiple sites.
- Support researchers accessing the crystallography service.
- Prepare research findings for publications, conferences, and seminars.
- Contribute to student supervision and collaborative outreach activities.
Required Qualifications
Research Associate Applicants Must Have:
- A PhD in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or a related field.
Research Assistant Applicants Must Have:
- A relevant undergraduate degree, and be actively working toward a PhD.
Essential Skills
- Strong knowledge of single-crystal X-ray diffraction.
- Experience with crystallographic data collection and refinement.
- Proven ability to analyze and interpret structural data.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a research team.
Desirable Skills
- Experience conducting experiments under extreme conditions.
- Familiarity with liquid robotic crystallisation systems.
- Programming/scripting knowledge for experiment automation.
- Experience with low-temperature crystallography or non-classical crystallisation methods.
Why Work at Newcastle University?
Newcastle University is committed to:
- Inclusive hiring
- Gender and race equality (Athena Swan Gold & REC Bronze)
- Disability support and guaranteed interview scheme
- Creating a supportive, diverse, and collaborative research environment
The University also participates in Euraxess, supporting internationally mobile researchers.
How to Apply
- Prepare your CV and cover letter, ensuring your experience aligns with the criteria outlined above.
- Submit your application through the official Newcastle University job portal. See the link below!!!
For informal inquiries, you may contact:
Prof. Michael Probert
📧 michael.probert@ncl.ac.uk
Final Thoughts
This role offers a prestigious opportunity to contribute to leading research in crystallography while working within a collaborative national research network. If you are passionate about molecular structure research and want to make a meaningful impact, this position is an excellent fit.
👉 Apply early — applications close on 17 November 2025.
